I cannot find a valve to attach my mechanical fuel pressure gauge, so I can check it. My truck was idling in the driveway yesterday, it suddenly dropped RPMs and started skipping. After some research, I replaced my CPS, it made no difference. My check engine light came on immediately and is on while engine is running. I lost my manual on CD, will have to order another one I guess. I assume fuel pressure is the first thing to check. If you have any other suggestions I am wide open.

if you have access to a scanner, pull for codes. even a superchips programmer will work.

Lost or dont have your owners manual???

Always give the sticky tech files thread a search when you need something...

And get the code...

I have a obd2 code puller, it only read something about emissions leak (minor). I think that is being triggered by the poor engine performance. I have the owners manual, but it is no use for this problem that I can see. I had a good manual on CD, last time I needed it was about 3 years ago, I can not find it now, but I do have the 2000-2004 Ford Service Manual, it is some what helpful but is designed for a trained technician and is not as helpful as the one made for dummies. but I did find the access points to take fuel pressure readings, they are nearly impossible to get to and has some type of 1/4" square head plug you have to remove then you have to have some type of threaded adapter so you can connect your gauge. What in the world was ford pin heads thinking?? why not put a shradder valve in an accessible point, it would not be like no one has ever done it that way before. good grief.
for ford engineers
I have read through the stickies, not much there that applies to my situation all though I did get my skull filled with some great info. I am considering getting the AE program at around $350 it seems to be my only choice.
thanks for the help

Fuel pressure will not cause a SES light. Your issue is not fuel pressure.

If I had to bet you have a UVC harness issue.

Open the fuel bowl drain with the truck running, if fuel comes out, then you have fuel pressure.

I did the fuel test you mentioned, I do have fuel pressure. what and where is the UVC harness you mentioned and is there a specific connector I should test/wiggle?
Thanks for your help.

UVC harness's are on both sides (Under Valve Cover)... center of the valve cover in/near the valley.

There are connectors on the inside, as well as the outside.

that must be those long skinny connectors going into the valve cover, any hints or suggestions on how to test/troubleshoot them? all of the wire harness that I can see seems to be in good shape with not kinks, nicks, or any obvious damage.

Thanks for your help...It looks like you have nailed it..My mechanic will be removing the valve cover tomorrow, he said everything was good up to that point, my even cylinders are all not contributing. I will keep you posted. this was more in depth than I wanted to go with it, I have a pretty good mechanic that I trust for this harder type stuff.

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New under the valve cover harness on the even side..problem solved. Thanks for the expert help from all who posted.